Have Faith

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Charles Meyers
  • 9th Physiological Support Squadron
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Since March of this year, I have filled the role of First Sergeant for my squadron. Initially, I was reluctant to take on the additional responsibility and questioned my ability in such a visible position. I worried whether I would be effective or if people would trust me. Turning to my faith, I made the decision to accept the challenge. The experience and growth has been amazing! With the recent increased emphasis on Enlisted Developmental Special Duties, more NCOs and Senior NCOs will be called on to accept a similar challenge. My experience illustrates sometimes you must take a leap of faith to prove to yourself you can succeed.

The chief called me to his office on a cold, winter day. He invited me in and asked me to have a seat. The expression on his face signaled a task was coming my way, and judging by his tone, it was going to be a challenging one. He asked if I would be the First Sergeant while our permanent First Sergeant deployed. I sat motionless for a few seconds and contemplated the opportunity. I knew this was a chance to make a positive impact, and it was clear the chief believed in me. However, self-doubt overcame me and I declined. I walked out of the chief's office feeling I had let him and myself down. I returned to my desk to give it more thought, and realized I was making a mistake. I was allowing insecurities to get the better of me. So, I did what I always do in circumstances like this, I turned to faith. I said a silent prayer, and returned to the chief's office to reconsider my decision. I accepted the challenge, knowing it would require more than faith to accomplish my duties, but I believed my training and experience would provide a foundation for my success. Once I believed in my ability to do the job, I knew I would succeed as First Sergeant.

It is now August, and the past five months have been both enriching and rewarding. My leadership believed in me from the start, but I was reluctant because I felt I needed all the answers to be successful. I understand now, it's not about having all the answers, but instead, having faith in my ability to find the answers I needed. With each new experience, my knowledge and confidence increased. Each task and question presented opportunities for growth. Mentoring dorm residents on finances helped me grow as a supervisor. Advising supervisors on personnel actions helped me grow as a leader. Providing encouragement to my squadron through difficult times helped me grow as a person. Now, I have a stronger foundation of faith in my ability to succeed, as a First Sergeant and a Senior NCO.

During your career, you may be asked to fulfill a role that tests your abilities or takes you outside of your comfort zone. Don't shy away. Often, we are challenged because of other's faith in our potential to grow and thrive. Remember, you are not expected to know it all. Instead, use all you know and believe in your ability to succeed. Take that leap of faith!